Madikeri Dasara Begins with Grand Karaga Procession, Marking Centuries-Old Tradition

MLA Manthar Gowda, Dasara committee president and Kodagu DC Venkat Raja, and working president Prakash Acharya were present during the puja at Pampinkere.

Madikeri: The renowned Madikeri Dasara festival began on Thursday, with four historic Karagas embarking on their traditional procession following a series of rituals performed near the iconic Pampinkere. This marks the start of the annual festival, one of Karnataka's most celebrated events along with Mysuru Dasara, bringing together the cultural and religious heritage of the district.

The Karagas, representing the deities of four major temples—Kunduramotte Chauti Mariamma, Dandina Mariamma, Kote Mariamma, and Kanchi Kamakshi—were ceremoniously carried through Madikeri, each taking its prescribed route.

These sacred idols will be paraded across the town in the lead-up to the main Dasara festival, where local residents welcome them with devotion, offering prayers and performing rituals as the procession passes through their streets.

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Madikeri Dasara, a vibrant and deeply rooted celebration, dates back more than 150 years. It was initially established during the reign of the Haleri kings in Kodagu, blending local folk traditions with religious observances. Historically, it started as a way to protect the region from natural calamities and epidemics, invoking the blessings of the gods. Over time, the festival has grown into a grand spectacle, featuring elaborate Karaga processions, captivating cultural performances, and decorative tableaux that traverse the streets of the hill town.

A highlight of the festival is the Karaga procession, a symbol of spiritual protection and prosperity for the region. Each temple’s Karaga holds significance to the community, with devotees gathering along the streets to receive blessings and honour the age-old customs.

This year’s Karaga procession was inaugurated in the presence of MLA Manthar Gowda, Dasara Committee President and Kodagu Deputy Commissioner Venkat Raja, and Working President Prakash Acharya attended the puja ceremonies at Pampinkere, showing their support for preserving this timeless tradition.

The Karagas were carried by skilled priests, each known for their devotion and expertise. PP Chami from Kundurumotte, PB Anish from Kote Mariamma, Umesh Subramani from Kanchi Kamakshi, and Umesh from Dandina Mariamma took on the responsibility of leading the deities’ journey. Their role is vital, as they ensure that the sacred processions follow the traditional customs, marking the path that the Karagas will take in the days ahead.

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